FBTA SUMMER TAILGATE - GOLDS DRAGOONS AT THE FCHC

Friday, August 30, 2015

Fun was had by all at our second annual tailgate at the Fairfield County Hunt Club watching the Gold's Dragoons exhibition match. Featured below are supporters Bob Stanton at right, Chip Steigler at left, and co-presidents Ariane Mermod and Deborah Webb in front of the FBTA banner below right.

FBTA SPRING KICK OFF PARTY - WEDNESDAY, MARCH 25, 2015

Co-president Deborah Webb hosted yet another magical night at her home in Westport. A nice congregation of riders and supporters gathered to kick-off the riding season.

New and Noteworthy 2014

SAVE THE DATE: FBTA SPRING KICK OFF PARTY, FRIDAY, MARCH 28th from 6pm

Ring in Spring with us. Board member Deborah Webb welcomes you to join us at her home for pot-luck wine and hors d'oeuvres from 6:00 - 8pm. For further details contact us at info@fairfieldbridletrails.org. We welcome curious non-members who might be interested in joining the FBTA!

FBTA WINTER LECTURE: SPRING CONDITIONING, MONDAY, FEBRUARY 24th

Please join the FBTA for our winter lecture: Spring Conditioning Strategies.               Monday, February 24th starting at 5pm. Please email ariane@fairfieldbridletrails.org for the address. Featuring Dr. Lyn Simmelink, DVM.

Are you struggling to even think about Spring? Does the idea of fresh grass and warm breezes make your heart race? Join us in strategizing how to bring our horses up to speed after a slow winter. The focus will be on a conservative exercise program to create a strong happy horse that will be able to face the rigors of the riding season without injury. Dr. Simmelink isolates the mechanics of the horse - bones, tendons, ligaments, muscles, and cardiovascular - and explains how to strengthen each area. A horse will be on hand to assist in the demonstration. We will discuss how to bring a horse along when struggling with inconsistent enviromental factors such as weather and poor footing.

Carolyn Simmelink, DVM has been in private equine practice based in Redding since 1981. Her specialty is educating new owners eager to provide their horses with the best care. She has competed in Horse Trials at Training Level and in Dressage Shows up to Second Level. Both of her daughters have been involved in Pony Club. She has been published in the American Association of Equine Practitioners, Dressage Today, Horse.com and Discoverhorses.com among others.

Dr. Simmelink recommends Activate Your Horse's Core, by Narelle C. Stubbs and Hilary M. Clayton (why, oh why, does my computer insert these photos sideways?!).  If you would like to reach out to Dr. Simmelink please contact me at ariane@fairfieldbridletrails.org and I will pass along her phone and email.

GOLD'S DRAGOONS POLO EXHIBITION, FBTA TAILGATE - SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 7th, 2014

FBTA FALL LECTURE: LOVE YOUR LEATHER - MONDAY, OCTOBER 6TH, 2014

FBTA HOLIDAY PARTY - WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 17TH, 2014

FBTA 2014 CALENDAR - 75TH ANNIVERSARY

Support the FBTA by purchasing one of our commemorative 75th anniverary calendars, featuring archival photos of trail riders, carriage drivers, pony clubbers, fox hunters, and many other riders associated with the FBTA over the many years we have been incorporated. Times have changed but riders are still hoofing it across our trail network. These make excellent gifts for horse friends, trainers, barn managers, grooms, transporters, or anyone who has a penchant for horses. Also good to keep on hand in the barn to keep track of all of your horses appointments! Many thanks to incoming co-president Deborah Webb for compiling and printing these calendars. Please contact info@fairfieldbridletrails.org if you are interested in purchasing a calendar. They are $20 a piece.

New and Noteworthy 2013

FIRST ANNUAL NEW YEARS EVE RIDE! DECEMBER 31st, 2013





Riders awaiting a few more latecomers.  What a perfect way to finish up the year!

ANNUAL FBTA HOLIDAY PARTY: SUNDAY, DECEMBER 8th at 6:30 pm

Fantastic turn out for our annual Holiday Party! A wonderful way to beat the winter blues and reminisce about great rides gone by. The Christmas Cosmos were flowing and good cheer abounded. 

FOURTH ANNUAL TURKEY TROT PICK UP RIDE: SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 30th at 10:30 am
Fun was had by all on our fourth annual Turkey Trot ride. Brisk sunny weather had us bundled up riding from the Fairfield County Hunt Club to Maple Tree Farm and back again. Horses and riders were all well behaved and it was the perfect way to start off the holiday season.

FALL LECTURE: THERMOGRAPHIC SADDLE FITTING - MONDAY, NOV. 11 at 5:30

Do you think you have an improperly fitting saddle? Is your horse showing a hesitation to move laterally under saddle? Is your horse pushing his nose out or neck up while working? Are there behavioral or physical problems that could be caused by back pain? Join us to see Karen Withstanley, of the Refined Equine, show us where our saddles hurt our horses with her thermographic image technology. Karen is certified in English Saddle Fit as well as English Saddle Reflocking, trained by Master Saddler David May of The Cumbria School Of Saddlery in Penrith England. You will be shown the proper placement and balance for your saddle, what adjustments can be made, and how to make templates of your horse's back if you need to find a new saddle. The evening promises to be informative and interesting and as always there will be refreshments! The lecture is from 5:30-7:30pm at Bankside Farm at 2004 Cross Highway in Southport. Karen will start exactly at 6:00pm so don't be late! Email ariane@fairfieldbridletrails.org to rsvp. Members only but you can bring your form along (see "Join the FBTA" to the left)! 

RIDING ON THE BEACH UPDATE - OCTOBER 2013  ******USE CAUTION******

Please use extreme caution if you decide to come ride on the beach. There is still alot of buried debris: nails, glass, brick and block left over from Hurricane Sandy. 

Penfield Pavilion is undergoing repairs and there is construction equipment in the parking lot. We recommend trailers park at Jennings Beach. Aviod beautiful warm days as the beach will be too crowded.

DOGS have been seen loose on both sides of the beach. If your horse is not comfortable with dogs, DO NOT COME TO THE BEACH. Remember:

RIDE ONLY AT LOW TIDE - CLEAN UP AFTER YOUR HORSE EVERYWHERE - AVOID WALKERS AND DOGS (unless they approach you) and RIDE MID-WEEK

Riding is under constant scrutiny on our beach, and you have NO PRIVILEGES. Please be polite to everyone, be responsible, clean up after your horse everywhere, and defer to walkers and dog owners no matter how unreasonable. And if you are reading this you are availing yourself of our services, so please JOIN the FBTA. It costs less than going to one hunter pace! Do not be the reason the town chooses to prohibit riding on the beach.

FBTA TACK TAG SALE! SUNDAY,  MAY 19th from 10:30 - 1:30PM

Our 3rd Annual Tack Tag Sale!

This year held on                              Sunday, May 19th                                 from 10:30-1:30                           

at the Fairfield County Hunt Club       174 Long Lots Road, Westport

In the viewing area of the indoor riding ring. Riding loot galore! 

Have things to donate? We always need more! Contact ariane@fairfieldbridletrails.org

FBTA SPRING LECTURE : BAREFOOT BENEFITS - WEDNESDAY, APRIL 24th

Join us to hear barefoot trimmer Sarah Block, of CT Natural Hoof Care, tell us about her experience trimming horses, ponies, and donkeys and all of her reasons why she believes barefoot is better! She will explain the mechanics of the horses' hoof, and the influence of diet, lifestyle, and exercise on the hoof. "No hoof no horse" as they say, and she will explain why a horse without shoes has healthier feet. The evening promises to be informative and interesting and as always there will be refreshments! The lecture is from 6:30-8:00pm at Salko Farm in Southport. Email ariane@fairfieldbridletrails.org to rsvp. Members only but you can bring your form along!

FBTA KICK OFF PARTY - WEDNESDAY, MARCH 20th

Ring in Spring with us on the night of the vernal equinox. Board member Deborah Webb welcomes you to join us at her home for a glass of wine and hors d'oeuvres from 6:30 - 8pm. For further details contact us at info@fairfieldbridletrails.org. We welcome curious non-members who might be interested in joining the FBTA!

See photo below - great turnout and good times! Thanks Deborah for hostessing! (Click photo to enlarge)

FBTA 2013 CALENDAR - MY FIRST PONY

Support the FBTA by purchasing one of our adorable "My First Pony" member contributions calendar, featuring...you guessed it, many of our first ponies. These make excellent gifts for horse friends, trainers, barn managers, grooms, transporters, or anyone who has a penchant for horses. Many thanks to board member Deborah Webb for compiling and printing these calendars. Please contact info@fairfieldbridletrails.org if you are interested in purchasing a calendar. They are $15 a piece.

New and Noteworthy 2012 

FBTA HOLIDAY PARTY - THURSDAY, DECEMBER 6th

Don't miss the fun with your horse loving friends at our annual Holiday bash. This year held at co-president Ariane Mermod's home.

FBTA THANKSGIVING RIDE - SAVE THE DATE, SUNDAY,  NOVEMBER 18

Join us for our third annual Turkey Trot, a revivial of the Thanksgiving Day rides in years gone by. We are trying to get permission to leave from the Hunt Club and return back to the club for a casual outdoor thanksgiving luncheon. Stay tuned for news. The ride is open to members only, but it is not too late to join! There will be a prize for "most festive costume," so get out those silly turkey hats! --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

GET OUT THE VOTE! DEBRALEE HOVEY, EQUESTRIAN FRIENDLY STATE REP. RUNNING FOR RE-ELECTION

One of our members, Rep. Debralee Hovey, is running for her 6th legislative session representing the towns of Newtown and Monroe.In addition to the many accomplishments listed i nthe link below, Debralee is a relentless advocate for horses and horse friendly parks, and the creation and preservation of trail networks and open space. Please consider supporting her when you head out to vote on November 6th, or pass on this information on to others that you think would be supportive. To learn more see: http://cthousegop.com/about-debralee-hovey/

FBTA HUNTER TRIALS, Sunday, October 7th  CANCELLED!!

Several years ago we moved this event to Sunday to accomodate the children and adults who no longer had the Columbus day holiday off. However hunter paces and horse trials on this Sunday have proven to be too much competition for our charming little event, and we have had to make the difficult decision to discontinue it. We are working on a new event to replace it, but will not be up and running until next Fall. We are very sad to have to cancel this tradition and want to thank the Hunt Club for their years of support and all of those who attended for showing us your support as well.

FBTA OLYMPICS SCREENING EVENT, Thursday, August 9th, 7:00 - 10:00 pm 

Join your FBTA friends to watch a large screen replay of the Olympics Freestyle Grand Prix and any other replays the group wants to see at co- president Ariane Mermod's home - Eventing Cross Country, Show Jumping, etc. will be on view. There will be snack food and wine and beer, but additional food and beverages would be appreciated! Contact ariane@fairfieldbridletrails.org if you'd like to come. Members only.

TIME TO HIT THE TRAILS! Mid-June.

All the trails have been cleared and are ready to go. Nick Niles Landscaping Service, our long term mower and trimmer, has cut back this Spring's vigorous growth, and large trees have been cut away by our fabulous"tree guy," Gerry.  Hope to see you all on our beautiful trails soon!

FBTA TACK "TAX" TAG SALE: SUNDAY, APRIL 29th 10:30-1:30, FCHC indoor ring viewing area, 174 Long Lots Road, Westport

Back for it's second year, the FBTA Tack Tax" Tag Sale!

TO BUY: Great stuff for horse and rider, at not-to-be-beat prices. Blankets, buckets, bridles, boots, ratcatchers, jackets, breeches, bits, and more for adults and children.

TO DONATE: If you find yourself inundated with riding "stuff": too big, too small, don't really need at all - why not donate it? We will pick it up and give you a donation receipt. No item too small. We will take anything related to riding and horse care.

FBTA FEATURED IN FAIRFIELD SUN ARTICLE "WATERFRONT HORSEBACK RIDING TO CLOSE FOR THE SEASON" March 29th, 2012. To read the article click here.

FBTA SPRING CLINIC: FROM THE GROUND UP HORSEMANSHIP CLINIC, SUNDAY, MARCH 25th

Is there something missing in your partnership with your horse? Are you looking to improve your horses performance? Is there something just not quite right with your horse, but you cant put your finger on it? If you answered yes to any of these questions then we can help you to resolve these issues! Through simple and easy to understand ground training methods you will learn how to be the partner your horse wants you to be.Join certified trainer, Denise Hopkins, at this all day Confidence Clinic for a life changing opportunity to transform your relationship with your horse. This interactive clinic and demonstration is packed with tips, techniques, and answers to the many questions we all face as horse people. Throughout the day Denise will be working with several horses that represent the struggles that we face with our horses. You will witness these horses being transformed in a matter of hours rather than days! The open question and answer format is designed to meet the needs of each and every member of the audience.Please see our flyer attached for more information and an entry form. Priority will be given to members who have paid in full, so submit early, we only have 6 spaces left!

What: FBTA Spring Clinic - From the Ground up Horsemanship

When: Sunday, March 25th, 9:30 am- 4:00 pm

Where: Serendipity Farm, 402 North Park Avenue, Easton

Details: Address ground manners, standing, forwardness, suppleness, confidence, trailer loading, and more!

Cost: $100 for all day participants (members are given priority) / includes lunch $ 20 auditing fee full day / $10 half day / lunch not included

FBTA KICK-OFF PARTY A BIG BALE OF FUN TUESDAY, MARCH 20th

Many thanks to co-president Dorothy Porter for hosting this year's Kick-Off party. Fun was had by all and a new FBTA Directory was introduced. Also at the party was Fairfield Sun editor and reporter James Passeri, who wrote an article about the FBTA and riding on the beach.

xxxxxxxxxxxxx

READ THE FBTA 2011 ANNUAL NEWSLETTER!

Find out what WE did last summer, and all year long! Please support the FBTA by becoming a member.

FBTA WINTER LECTURE: HORSE MASSAGE THERAPY AND RIDER BALANCE, TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 28th

Please join us for our first lecture of the year! Horse and human massage therapist Sue Kasmin, of Connecticut Equine Therapy, will treat us to a demonstration of how to massage a horse, show us some moves we can do on our horses to keep them limber between sessions, and point out to us all of the ways our own posture can affect the horse's balance and muscles when we are in the saddle. Yes - we are responsible for some of our horse's aches and pains! Please come and find out how you can help to keep your horse comfortable and prevent injury, so that you can enjoy him or her in the upcoming riding season and well beyond. See Sue's website for more about her: www.ctequinetherapy.com.

When: Tuesday, February 28th, 5:00-7:00pm

Where: Banks Farm, 2004 Cross Highway (at corner of Sturges Highway), FF

What: FBTA Winter Lecture: Horse Massage Therapy and Rider Balance

Who: Members only - you can bring your membership form with you!

Details: Wine and cheese, but more goodies please! Please dress warm and go before you go - remote bathroom.

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

FBTA MEMBER DOES GOOD PUBLIC RELATIONS AT THE BEACH

Wonderful video taken by a spectator on the beach of Joanne introducing her horse Tucker to a child admirer. Click to see video:

http://vimeo.com/36197854

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

MEMORIAL SERVICE FOR FRANCES SNYDER, WONDERFUL FRIEND TO THE FBTA

Southport Congregational Church, Saturday, February 4th at 2pm

Reception at Pequot Yacht Club following the service

It is with great sadness that we inform you that Frances Snyder, one of our largest landowners and a very talented and generous lady, died on December 26^th. She was an extraordinary woman and a wonderful friend to the Fairfield Bridle Trails Association.

Photo above is Fran with her horse Misty. Our sympathy goes out to her family and many friends. We will miss her.

2012 FBTA CALENDARS ARE READY!

Support the FBTA and keep your barn organized in the new year with this beautiful calendar. Only $15.

Many thanks to Deborah Webb for putting together another wonderful year of photos on the trail network.!

A great gift for all those who help you with your horses throughout the year as well.

Please e-mail debwwebb@gmail.com to order your calendar.

 New and Noteworthy 2011

FBTA HOLIDAY PARTY - FRIDAY, DECEMBER 9th

It's that time of year already! Time for the annual holiday party, where riders can congregate to compare notes on a year's worth of riding ups and downs. Our FBTA Fundraiser Calendar will be for sale as well, kindly created by Deborah Webb. This years party will be held at Co-President Ariane Mermod's house, please contact her at ariane@fairfieldbridletrails.org if you have not received your invitation. Hope to see you there!

ANNUAL FBTA TURKEY TROT PICK UP RIDE - SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 20th

Great turnout for this year's Turkey Trot! Gathering at Maple Tree Farm, from left to right, Carmen, Daryl, Anne, Caroline, JoAnn, Susan, David, Bonnie, and not shown, Ariane and Dorothy. Fabulous day perusing the trails and then followed with dinner at the Horse Shoe with friends and family!The ridebegan at 1pm the Fairfield Hunt Club and wove up to Maple Tree Farm on Merwin's Lane, where we picked up our northern riders at 2pm and then head back again. For more photos go to our gallery page.

HUNTER TRIALS COMMITTEE LUNCHEON

Celebrating the successes of a hard days work (and many more days spent on publicity, etc.) are the members of our Hunter Trials committee, here enjoying a luncheon at the FCHC. From left to right: Dorothy, Caroline, Jeanette, Deborah, Robin, Ariane, and Bonnie, Thank you ladies!

THE FBTA HUNTER TRIALS - SUNDAY, OCTOBER 9th, 2011 

Held on the beautiful polo field of the Fairfield County Hunt Club, the Hunter Trials promise a fun day for adults and juniors alike. Something for everyone! Plus the Hunt Club is open for brunch with a view of the course.

FCHC, 174 Long Lots Road, Westport.

Junior classes start at 8am, adult classes start after 12pm. Click here for a 2011 Prize List.

Results are in! Congratulations to our winners:

• Junior Champion - Devon Conley, winner of a Beval's dress cooler
• Junior Reserve Champion - Payton Beerbower, wins a signature saddle pad
• Adult Champion - Anita Zander, winner of a dress cooler
• Adult Reserve Champion - David Goodwin, winner of a signature saddle pad
• Foggy Dew Winner - Devon Conley

PHOTOS OF THE TRIALS CAN BE VIEWED AND PURCHASED AT http://www.ctpost.com/seen/slideshow/SEEN-Fairfield-County-Hunt-Club-31403.php#photo-1664563

xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxFBTA TRAIL BLAZERS STRIKE AGAIN, MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 26th

Hitting the northern trail system post "Irene." Many thanks to FBTA volunteers (left to right)Judy Wilson, Ginny Gartland, Bonnie Kreitler, Jeanette Ciciora, and Anne Wokanovicz. Never under estimate the capabilities of a group of women with hack saws and loppers! A group ride to survey our work is tentatively planned for October 11th. Stay tuned.

x

xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

FBTA VOLUNTEER TRAIL CLEARING DAY, SUNDAY, JULY 24

May thanks to our five trail volunteers for their efforts pushing the pre-cut logs off of one of our favorite and best trail riding properties. Picture left to right, Ariane Mermod, Judy Wilson, Anne Wokanovicz, Michelle Wells, and Robin Garr. We are grateful to our landowner for the continued use of the trails and for allowing a volunteer crew to come through and clear them.

xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

FBTA "LAUREL BLOSSOM" GROUP RIDE SATURDAY, JUNE 11th

Please join us for a group ride and tailgate at Huntington State Park on Saturday, June 11th. Time dependant on rsvps. Contact Ariane at Ariane@fairfieldbridletrails.org.

xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

FBTA GYMNASTICS CLINIC WITH ALLIE THURSTON, SATURDAY MAY 14th

Allieis a phenomenal center-riding oriented trainer who is accredited to teach both upper level dressage and eventing. For more about Allie see her bio attached. This Gymnastics clinic willhave2 sessions in the morning of flat work using various ground pole configurations, and 2 sessions in the afternoon of gymnastics exercises of various distances and heights (nothing intimidating!). All sessions will focus on balance, relaxation, and pace. Each session will be approximately 1 hour long, with breaks between sessions and for a picnic lunch. Each session costs $50 or less depending on the number of riders. We are very excited to be able to offer you this clinic at the Weeks' beautiful farm in Southport. Weare confidentAllie will enrich your riding experience! Please let us know if you are interested and if so for which session(s). Contact ariane@fairfieldbridletrails.org.

 

xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

DERBY PARTY, SATURDAY, MAY 7
The FBTA pulled out all the stops to give the Pequot Library's Derby Party a horsey flair. Members (and their horses) came in their fox hunting, eventing, dressage, and horse show attire. Pictured left to right Chester Burley, Jeanette Ciciora, Ariane Mermod on Ben, Deborah Webb, Deej Webb, and Scott Green. The event was featured in the Fairfield Citizen online.

xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

TACK "TAX" TAG SALE - SUNDAY, APRIL 17, FAIRFIELD HUNT CLUB INDOOR RING VIEWING ROOM 11-3pm

Many wonderous used things will be for sale at very reasonable prices two days after taxes are due! Make your donations soon in order to take advantage of the tax deduction, or just to get it out of your way. Children and adult: paddock boots, hunt boots, shirts, jackets, and jodphurs/breeches, horse and pony blankets, saddles, pads, bridles, bits, halters, wraps, and much more - even a side saddle! Still looking for donations: contact: ariane@fairfieldbridletrails.org or JoAnn at joann.palazzo@gmail.com for pick-up.

xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

APRIL FOOLS RIDE - SATURDAY, APRIL 2nd, 12pm BRETT WOODS

We had beautiful weather for our first organized ride of the season. In photo from left to right: Vivian on Daryus, Deborah on Misty, Jeanette on Ginger, Dorothy on Charlie, Ariane on Ben, Erin on Martini, and Robin on Linus. The ride was followed by a great tailgate of crumbs cupcakes and Moet champagne!

 

 

 

xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

IMPROMPTU BEACH RIDE - MARCH 29th, 2011
Beautiful weather lured FBTA riders out to the beach for one of the last rides of the season. From right to left, Jeanette on Ginger, Caroline on Misty, Ariane on Linus, Robin on Greystone, and Charlotte on Ben.

 

 

 

xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

KICK OFF PARTY

Come find out who we are and what we do - get involved! Thursday, March 10th, 6-7:30 at the home of Dorothy Porter. email for an invitation ariane@fairfieldbridletrails.org

xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

2011 FBTA CALENDAR FOR SALE

A full year's worth of FBTA horses on our beautiful trail network. A great gift for anyone in your barn. Only$10, all to benefit the FBTA.Contact ariane@fairfieldbridletrails.org

xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

FBTA LECTURE SERIES: PRE-SEASON CONDITIONING FOR YOUR HORSE

March 7, 2011 Many thanks to Dr. Lyn Simmelinkfor offering to lecture FBTA members and friends on the best was to get your horse back into conditionfor the upcoming riding season.We discussed theinfluencetraining can have on bones,tendons, ligaments, lungs, and muscles, and were givena demonstration ona 'livemodel" on how you can determine thefitness of your horse's "core."Dr. Simmelink recommended two books for reference: "Activate your Horse's Core" by Stubbs and Clayton, and "Cross Training your Horse" by Jane Savoie. For a copy of thelecture hand-out please click here.

New and Noteworthy 2010

• FBTA 2010 "A YEAR IN REVIEW" NEWSLETTER, click to view

• CAROLING ON HORSEBACK
  

December 18, 2010 A troupe of carolers set out from Fran Snyder's beautiful property to rustle up an audience for our questionable vocal talents. We had some good laughs and a good time and are looking forward to finding a bigger audience next year!

 

 

 

 

HOLIDAY PARTY

• Thursday, December 8th, 2010 Hostess Deborah Webb, on right, has a word with co-president Dorothy Porter and long time FBTA supporter Maurice Corrigan. Great turnout and a good time was had by all. Many thanks to Deborah and Deej for opening their home to us for another year of festivities! For more photos see our Photo Gallery page.

• TURKEY TROT GROUP RIDE
  

November 20, 2010Fun was had by all on our first ever "Turkey-Trot" around our Greenfield Hill Trail network the Saturday before Thanskgiving. Happy hour followed at the Horse Shoe bar in Southport. For more photos see our photo gallery page.

NEW RULES AT"WEEKS"(Nov. 1, 2010) Due to an excess of activity on the Weeks' property in Southport this summer, the Week's have asked us to get the word out about some new and old rules and requirements for riding on their property:

1. ALL RIDERS MUST BE FBTA MEMBERS

2. NO JUMPING

3. NO WALKERS OR DOGS

4. NO LESSONS

We are very grateful to the Weeks' for allowing us to continue to ride on their property and for their patience as we get the word out so that everyone can fully comply with their wishes. If for some reason you think riders have a right of way over their property this is not the case - we can ride there because ofthe good graces of the family; please respect their wishes!

RIDING AT THE BEACH

NOVEMBER 2010 - THE TOWN HAS RECEIVED 3 x THE COMPLAINTS FROM RESIDENTS ABOUT HORSES THAN LAST YEAR ALREADY: MANURE ON THE BEACH - RIDING ABOVE THE HIGH WATER MARK -RIDER FALLING OFF AND HORSE RUNNING ALL OVER THE PLACE - 30 HORSES ON THE BEACH ON THE WEEKEND - RIDING BAREBACK WITHOUT HARD HATS, ETC. ETC. WE DON'T KNOW WHO YOU ALL ARE, COMING BY THE BOX TRUCK LOAD ON THE WEEKENDS, BUT YOU AREGOING TO BE THE REASON WE LOOSE OUR BEACH PRIVILEGES - PLEASE RESPECT OUR BEACH!! DO NOT COME ON THE WEEKEND AND ONLY RIDE AT LOW TIDE!!

• Holiday Giving! Book Suggestion: Women Riders Who Could... And Did: Life Stories of Top Level Equestriennes by Amy Dillon. Do you know women whove
  returned to horseback riding as adults? Or graduating seniors whove been horse-crazy girls? author Amy Dillon says that "interviewing these wonderful women and publishing the book is a continuation of my passion for hearing life stories of people whove become accomplished despite obstacles. And Im someone who discovered horses and learned to ride for the 1st time as an adult!" She is offering a 20% discount for 5 or more books, ordered throughher website at http://www.HuckleHillPress.com.

• Runaway Horse Prompts Fairfield Animal Control to Request Riders Register their Horses Connecticut Post, Bridgeport, October18
  What to do if you and your horseget seperated? Consider the unsupecting motorist or homeowner who discovers a tacked up horse in their front yard.The FBTA suggests trailridersattach a small luggage style tag to the D-ring of their saddle withyour and an alternate person'scontact information, as well as the location of your barn.Riders shouldalso carry "In case of Emergency" instructions, either on theirperson orinside their riding hat. It is always a good idea to leave word at your barn regarding where you will be riding that day, so that if there is a problem they will know where to start looking. Better to be safe than sorry!

• FBTA Improves Footing on Aspetuck Trail System

Co-presidents Dorothy Porter and Ariane Mermod test out the new footing on the Putnam Access trail to Rudkin Aspetuck Preserve in Lower Fairfield. The FBTA hired Fernando Santos of Brazilian Paving & Stone Construction toimprove the drainage and footing on 75 feet of trail, whichused to be so muddy in the spring and fall that the horses could not access that part of the trails.

• FBTA HunterTrails, Sunday October 10th, Fairfield County Hunt Club

There were classes for juniors and adults, family classes, under saddle classes, pairs and teams over fences, all to support the FBTA's efforts to maintain our local bridle trails. The Hunt Club served a delicious brunch whichwas open to the public. A tack and riding attire tag sale was also held. Here Grace Coley, from Rowayton,receives her blueribbon for low junior hunter under saddle.

Winners were:

• Low Junior Hunter Champion - Ellie Ashman on Scary Story
• High Junior Hunter Champion - Devin Conley on Uptown Girl
• Low Adult Hunter Champion-Kimberly Young on Take It To The Limit
• Both Junior Champions tied for the Foggy Dew trophy

• Fox Hunting with Fairfield County Hounds, freeuntil Sept 30th
• The Fairfield County Hounds is pleased to invite members of the Fairfield Bridle Trail Association to experience the joy and thrill of riding to hounds. Through September 30^th, FCH will waive the capping fee (a fee paid by guests who ride with the hunt) for Fairfield Bridle Trail Association members whod like to join us for an introduction to fox hunting. (We can also recommend nearby barns with seasoned hunters to lease for a day, if you dont own a horse.) Our second field of riders who ride at a less challenging pace than the first field of seasoned hunt members is a great way for newcomers and guests to see what fox hunting is all about!Find out more by visiting our Web site: www.fairfieldcountyhounds.com or contact Joanna Samson, 860-309-0064 (cell) or Jo Mayer 860-354-6707 (FCH Kennels) or fairfieldcountyhounds@earthlink.net. Joanna or Jo will be happy to answer your questions, from what to wear to how to get there.

• Super 7 Extension Plans in Work to Convert to Greenway

• MERRITT PARKWAYALLIANCE PLANS TO INCLUDE RIDING TRAILS June 24th, 2010. Members of the FBTA and Connecticut Horse Council were present at a pivitol meeting held in Fairfield on June 24th between the Bike Walk Fairfield County Steering Committee (BWFC) and the CT Dept. of (ConnDOT). Plans are underway to construct multi-use bike and walking trails along the green corridor flanking the Merritt parkway. Officials from the South Western and Greater Bridgeport Regional Planning Agency reviewed their current trail mapping data. Included of interest is the Pequonnock/Housatonic Railbed Greenway that extends from Bridgeport through Trumbull and Monroe to the Newtown line.While some of this trail will be paved in the more congested areas, many sections will remain natural surface when on DEP land or in the more rural areas. There is also the Housatonic River Trail and Norwalk River Parkway Trail. At this meeting, the equestrian community became stakeholders to support this initiative. The meeting was of utmost importance as the organization was finalizing its Mission Statement. With equestrian representation there, we were able to have equestrians use included in their statement.

• FBTA Joins the Connecticut Horse Council June, 2010. The CTHC is the voice of the horse in Connecticut, and focuses on preserving parks and green spaces for trail riding. We join, support, and thank themfor their efforts to expand and protect our open spaces in Fairfield County.

• FBTA Mourns the Loss of Vice-PresidentDan Burhans May 26, 2010. Wehave just received notice that long-time FBTA member Dan Burhanspassedaway Monday May 24. Many will remember Dans tireless and reliable work for the club tending to our insurance needs and trail maintenance. And many will recall him jumping Arrogant Prince over 4-foot fences and drivingIntrepid Lady at a smart trot around Southport. Dan always enjoyed a good horse and he leaves a space that will be hard to fill. The family will hold a memorial service Fri May 28 from 5 to 7 p.m. at the Collins Funeral Home, 92 East Avenue, Norwalk 06851. There will be a graveside service Sat May 29 at 11 a.m. at St. Johns Cemetery, 223 Richards Ave., Norwalk 06850. Condolences to the family can be sent to Dans cousin Kathy Britto, c/o Collins Funeral Home, 92 East Avenue, Norwalk, CT 06851.

• FBTA at the Pequot Library Derby Party FBTA member Erin Hornung looks on as co-president Ariane Mermod (in jockey silks) gives herthoroughbred Ben a smooch at the Pequot Library Derby Party. Featured in theFairfield Citizen and the Connecticut Post. For more photos of the party go to our gallery page.

• Beach Riding in the News! Thanks to Tim Loh of the Fairfield Citizen for writing such a supportive article about horses and dogs on the beach. Read the article: Bidding the Beaches Adieu, March 26th, 2010. Member Jeanette Cicora is pictured heregalloping her horseGinger.

• Save the date: Derby Day Party, May1st Save the date for a great day watching the Run for the Roses, drinking Mint Juleps, snacking on ham and biscuits, picking your winning horsesand admiring the tailgaters with vintage cars on the lawn of the Pequot Library. Tentative time 4:30 to 7:30.

• FBTA Tack Sale - Request for donations Have you accumulated gear you no longer need or are you looking for something different? We are organizing a tack swap and sale - the FBTA will be selling donated items, and all are welcome to bring your own stuff, hang around for a couple of hours and see if you can sell it or trade for something else! Date + time dependent on interest, please e-mail!

• First Annual Spring Kick-Off Party a great success Thanks to everyone who turned up for our kick-off! It was a great combination of old and new faces, and some great input was given on what members interests are and what you would like to do. Member Ginny Gartland was the winner of the FBTA saddle pad door prize, and member Alix Pose was the runner-up with a 2010 Farmers Almanac. Unfortunately we forgot to take pictures...

• 2010MembershipAppeal Letter
• 2010 Winter Newsletter
• 
  

New and Noteworthy 2009

FBTA HOLIDAY PARTY! Thursday, December 10th

Don't miss your chance to catch up with your fellow FBTA riding friends and make new ones! Member Deborah Webb is hosting this year's party. Please stand by for your inviation, either by "Evite" or mail if we do not have your email address. Hope to see you there!

Our Fall Newsletter is here!

If you did not receive your copy, or are not a member, take a look by clicking here. In this issue:

Hunter Trails Results + Photos, Seen on the Trails, Did you know? Members in our community, New for 2010, Winter horse care tips, and the Classifieds section: Stall + Services

FBTA Mourns the Passing of past-FBTA President and community leader Sue Eckert

Sue Eckert passed away on Friday, November 13th.A wake was held for her at the Lesko funeral home in the Brick Walk on Monday, anda funeral service was held Tuesday at St. Timothys Church inFairfield

.In addition to being a pastpresident of the FBTA, Sue was on the FBTA board, served asour liaison with the town, and as an elected member of

Fairfields Representative Town meeting for many, many years. She will be greatly missed by all who knew her.

ConnecticutChildren's Medical Center Saddle-Up Trail Ride -Sunday, November 1st

Come ride the 8 miles of beautiful trails at the Second Company Governor's Horse Guard's Fairfield Hills Facility and help raise funds for the kids at Connecticut Children's

Medical Center

! Hosted by the Second Company Governor's Horse Guard,

4 Wildlife Drive, Newtown, CT

, 203-426-9046. These trails arebeautiful and are rarelyopen to the public so this is an excellent opportunity to explore new territory! Start times are from 9 am - 12 pm. See theCCMC Saddle-Up Ride Flyerfor details. For further information contact SGT. Jackie Sundblade (203) 558-4749 or (203) 729-3065.

2009 FBTA Hunter Trials - October 11th

The 2009 FBTA Hunter Trials will be held on Sunday, October 11th at the Fairfield County Hunt Club in

Westport, CT.

For a copy of the2009 FBTA Hunter TrialsPrize List andEntry Form click here. Please print out both for your reference and mail in your entry form with a check made out to the "FBTA."

You may also enter the day of the event. Registrationopens at 7:00 am. Junior classes start at 8:00 am, Adult classes start after 12:00 pm.

New Newman/Poses Preserve in Westportwill be accessible to Horseback Riders

According to an article printed in the Westport News on September 3, 2009, 38 acres of land in northern Westport, some of which was donated to the town of Westport by the Newman family, will bedesignatedasa nature preserve.The new recreational area, named the "Newman/Poses Preserve" will bemanaged by the Aspetuck Land Trust.It will be accessible to horseback riders (yeah!). ALT is currently expanding the trail network and seeking approval for the parking lot -whichmay only accomodate 10 cars so get there early! Contact the ALT for further information. You can read the complete article by clicking on this link://www.westportnow.com/index.php?/v2/comments/town_seeks_creation_of_newman_poses_nature_preserve/

Stablecloth Luxury Riding Apparel Sample

Sale

This weekend! June 19 - June 21st

Member Erin Hornung is hosting a sample sale of her gorgeous custom made riding clothes this weekend. Come check it out at

88 Overhill Road, Fairfield

,Friday to Sunday June 19 - 21st.

Trout Brook 10th AnniversaryRide Saturday, June 13 between 8:00 - 12:00

Come for an open ride and tailgate at

Trout

Brook

Valley

Preserve in

Easton

to celebrate its 10th anniversary.

Trails will be marked for riders and will include access to the orchard for an outstanding view of Long Island Sound.

Parking: will be in the emergency parking area off

Bradley Road

Time: 8-12. Wander the trails at your own pace or meet up with others

Come and have family members who are not riding come hike the trails and meetyou for a tailgate luncheon afterwards.

Please RSVP to Ali diBonaventura at 203-247-7369

FBTAMountainLaurelRide

Sunday, May 30thWhat anincredibleday for our mountain laurel ride - only no mountain laurel flowers!Apparently it will be a couple of weeks before they are in bloom. The tailgating party afterwards welcomed husbands and friends who had biked up to the park and children and dogs who were brought along to enjoy the gorgeous afternoon under the trees, while the horses grazed along side. See our Organized Rides page for more photos.

Pictured above: Ariane Mermod, Anya Porter, Deborah Webb, Susan Barnet, Jeanette Ciciora, Dorothy Porter, and Gwyneth Feroleto.

FBTA

Derby

Day Fundraiser a Big Success

Saturday, May 2nd, 2009 The 135th Run for the Roses was celebrated on the great lawn of the Pequot Library withafundraising tailgating party to benefit the library and the bridle trail association. It was a beautiful sunny day, a dixie land band was playing in the background, and the lawn was filled with men in their foxhunting pinks and ladies in fantastic derby hats.

Kentucky

fare was served all around. The event was featured in the Connecticut Post- and the Bridle Trails won "Most Elegant Tailgate"! We raised a nice amount of money for the FBTA, but most importantly had a great time drinking mint juleps and speculatingon the horses. Thanks to allfor the incredible turnout and the great support. We are looking forward to seeing you next year!

Barbara Burian and "

Hobbs

" are ready for the hounds!

Member Erin Hornung and Co-President Dorothy Porter sporting their Derby Hats

The FBTA Tent and Tailgate prior to the start of the event *winner of "Most Elegant Tailgate"

FCHPC/FBTA Hunts with Golden'sBridge Hounds

March 27, 2009Many thanks to the Golden's Bridge Hounds for inviting the Fairfield County Hounds Pony Club to join them on their last Saturday hunt of the season. FBTA members made themselves available to accompany the young riders. Special thanks to Anita Zander of the GBHs for leading the third field and providing guidance to the pony clubbers out on their first hunt. Member Deborah Webb served as official groom and photographer, and the FCHPC "parents" prepared a great tailgate.

Picturedabove, from left to right:

Elizabeth

McIntosh from the FCHPC, Jeanette Ciciora, Dorothy Porter, Erin Hornung, and Ariane Mermod from the FBTA.

Whippers-in preparing to set off with the hounds

FBTABeachRide

March 21, 2009A sunny warm Saturday lured members Caroline Sicilian, Bonnie Kreitler, Jeanette Ciciora, Dorothy Porter, Deborah Webb, Robin Garr, and Ariane Mermod out to Penfield Beach for one of the lastbeach rides of the season.

Follow the leader!

FBTA Hunts with Golden's Bridge Hounds

March 24, 2009FBTA co-president Dorothy Porter and member Erin Hornung joined the GBH for one of their last hunts of the season. Ariane Mermodacted asofficial staff groom and photographer.

Members Erin Hornung, Ariane Mermod, and Dorothy Porter

New and Noteworthy 2008



FBTA

Holiday

Party - December 4th

Please join us at the home ofco-president Dorothy Porterfor an evening of celebration on Thursday, December 4th. All members are welcome. Please let us know if you did not receive an invitation.

FBTA/FCH Pony Club Group Ride

SUNDAY,NOVEMBER 16, 2008 at 1:00 pm -

SOUTHPORT

Please meet Dorothy Porter (on her big black horse Charlie) at 1 pm at the corner of Morehouse and

Cedar Road

in

Southport

. It is an FBTA/FCH Pony Clubride, walk/trot and w/t/c trail option. For more information please contact Dorothy Porter at dmeekporter@optonline.net.

FBTA Hunter Trials Results!

Many thanks to all of you who came out to support the Fairfield Bridle Trail Association on Columbus Day, October 13th, 2008. The results of the classes and divisions are listed on our Hunter Trials web page. If you have any photographs from the day we would love to post them. Please forward them to huntertrails@fairfieldbridletrails.org.

Special congratulations go to:

David Goodwin,for the Foggy Dew Perpetual Trophy

Kate Bundy on

Manhattan

Tails for Low Junior Hunter Champion Nadja Titinsky on Rainsox for LJH Reserve

Isabel McCaskey on Forever Young for High Junior Champion Christina Schweir on Dirty Martini for HJH Reserve

David Goodwin on

Alliance

for Low Adult Hunter Champion Ellika Shilling on Milla for Low Adult Hunter Reserve

Carla Sharp on Sundance Kid and Joanne Murphy on Tucker for High Adult Hunter Champion (Tied)

Christina Devine on Leopold for High Adult Hunter Reserve

We look forward to seeing you next year!

Riding to continue on

Penfield Beach

On August 20th the Parks & Recreation Commission voted to continue to permit riding on

Penfield Beach

in the winter months. Beach access for horses will continue from October 1 to March 31. The only rule added was that horse owners must clean up any horse droppings on the beach or in the parking lot. Our thanks to all those who petitioned the town to maintain this tradition.

ing in Spring with us on the night of the vernal equinox. Board member Deborah Webb welcomes you to join us at her home for a glass of wine and hors d'oeuvres from 6:30 - 8pm. For further details contact us atinfo@fairfieldbridletrails.org. We welcome curious non-members who might be interested in joining the FBTA!

GOLD'S DRAGOONS POLO EXHIBITION, FBTA TAILGATE - SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 7th, 2014

FBTA FALL LECTURE: LOVE YOUR LEATHER - MONDAY, OCTOBER 6TH, 2014

Please join the Fairfield Bridle Trails Association for our Fall clinic! Allie and Gail will show us how to modify our own body movement to align with our horses for better balance and a more complete partnership. This will be a presentation with some viewer participation. Refreshments will be served - Feel free to bring something! A membership form is attached if you have not had a chance to send in your form yet, you can bring it with you.

Take Your Relationship to the Next Level: 

Better Control through Better Choices  

A demonstration Sponsored by FBTA featuring  

Gail Bernson and Allison Thurston

 

Learn new ways to:

•Separate your movements  •Align with the horizon  •Improve balance •Become a better partner

Saturday, Oct. 1, 2016

Machamux Farm

45 Sunset Hill Road, Redding

1:00 pm – 3:00 pm

What they say about each other:

"Under Gail ’s artful guidance, clients experience a major shift from their typical movement patterns to new levels of control. Her unique way of re-educating the body to make different choices facilitates positive changes including sounder movement and freedom from pain.” A. Thurston, South Dartmouth, MA

 

“Allison loves to bring a level of intimacy in the relationship between the horse and rider.  She see’s the flow of movement of the horse and of the rider and how each choose to organize their actions.  With this insight she can identify how the combination of the two will work and when it won’t and help both the horse and the rider shift into a clear communication” G. Bernson, Westport. CT

About Gail Bernson

The biological design of how the body perceives and moves fascinates me. I love to take people further in how they organize their actions.  I have lots of ways to challenge your body to learn new ways to synchronize vision, balance, and movement in ways you don’t have to remember, they become part of you.    

Owner of In Touch Therapeutic Massage and Body Work, in Westport CT., Gail Bernson has been a licensed massage therapist since 2002, with her primary focus as a Cranio Sacral Therapist. She studied massage after completing a master’s degree from the University of Connecticut where she studied Ecological Psychology. “

In graduate school, she developed a theory of how the body self-organizes, developed applied techniques for sensory and motor integration, and chose massage and body work as the license to continue her work.

Gail’s natural ability to find and release restrictions, combined with her unique knowledge of sensory-motor integration, provides an expertise that complements medical based therapies 

Master of Arts in Psychology University of Connecticut, Licensed Massage Therapist, Board Certified NCBTMB, Board Certified in Integrative Medicine. 

About Allison Thurston

As a life long student of movement, I am drawn to techniques which enhance movement and sustainable health for both horse and rider. I am interested in the beauty of the intimate, dynamic mutual dance between the two. My work emphasizes practical strategies that enhance the well-being of the whole horse: physical,mental and emotional. My approach stresses the relationship between horse and rider so they may perform better and stay healthier. In the quest to integrate the bodies of both horse and rider, I offer many practical strategies that will complement your current training.

A certified riding instructor since 1995, Allison Thurston is a former dancer and scientist with movement studies in dance, martial arts, yoga, Pilates®, Centered Riding®, Eqoscue Method®, Equiken®

Over 30 years experience,ARICP Level lll  Dressage/Eventing, US Eventing, ICP Level ll certified instructor• USPC Clinician.MA licensed